I thought I would initially start this blog series out with a slightly biased tale of my almost everyday life. Out of my many jobs, one of them involved working for an awesome tax lawyer. He’s a great guy; a family friend you could say. Without having to unravel history… early last year I went to NY to hang with a friend. Had a great time. My second day there I receive a phone call from my older sister. She said, “Hey, I told Ohn you’re in NY he wants you to get him food.” My response was of course, uncontrollable laughter. She continues on saying, “Oh and he wants it hot.” Mind you I’m a good three to four hours away from DC. My second response? “Oh yeah, don’t worry I’d just steal a domino’s delivery bag.” Ending part one short, I got the sandwich and the three pieces of cake and Mr. Tax Lawyer guy enjoyed this food. Why am I bringing this up? Today, May 19th, is his birthday and if you’re reading this I’m mostly likely half way to NY to pick up his same order and magically make it back in time to DC for his party.

Andre Simon once wrote, “Wine makes every meal an occasion, every table more elegant, every day more civilized.” This is still true for us today. More and more of us are being converted to wine drinkers, or wine sippers for the not-so-hardcore winos out there. Our generation, the millennial generation, is currently one of the biggest purchasers of wine compared to other age groups. So we like wine, whether we are first time drinkers or have had our fair share of practice (freshman year colony parties wwhhaatt?), but what’s next? I mean wine has made my table elegant; it has caused every day to become civilized…now it’s time to let wine make your meal into an occasion. Continue reading ‘The Ultimate Spice’

Here at Eleven Mansion we’ve broken out the grill for the first weekend we can call spring. Even though our grilling attempts will be interrupted by rain and clouds we thought it would be wise to instruct our readers to what they should do if they do not own a grill and have no clue how to turn meat. So, go and get yourself a grill, some charcoal or propane, some good meat and light a fire.

Spring time is finally here (well, not exactly). Not only are buds blossoming, but that young lady you’ve been cozied up with all winter may become permanent. Something like a formal date is due, so here’s a couple ways to go about a picnic. I’m sure it will impress your lady friend while capturing the essence of the new season:

Breakfast Bungalow: Early riser? Try making it out for a breakfast picnic. A step up from your basic pancake/waffle stint, a crepe is a good direction to go. A thin pancake, if you will, crepes are very easy to prepare (they literally take about a minute to cook). Some prep is required the night before, but it’s worth it. Served hot or cold, crepes can be filled with absolutely anything. Pair this with some fresh fruit and some mimosas (OJ if she’s not into morning bubbly) and you’re set. Sneak in an opportunity to embrace while enjoying the crisp morning air.

Buddy Brigade: Depending on your situation, your crew may or may not be familiar with your gal. If they are, all the better. You all can catch up and grab a bite to eat. If not, some lunchtime shits-n-giggles would be fitting. This will give everyone a chance to know one another, while keeping things casual. Either way, she’s bound to have a good time. The awkwardness that can possibly arise when flying solo on a date can also be avoided in this situation.

Bedtime Brew: Too busy during the day? My favorite of the three, a night-time picnic, is a great option. Head out to the most romantic little spot you can find – a small nook nestled among the trees, somewhere overlooking water, a gazebo if you’re really lucky. To make sure you guys can actually see one another, I suggest some LED candles (safety first!). Bring along some wine (or beers…or soda…or whiskey. shit, whatever you’re into) and your game face for this one. If she’s a free-spirit, nothing will be more fun than a game of Ultimate with a glow in the dark frisbee. Sky’s the limit with this date!

Now I can only give these three – the rest are up to you. But take heed, my friends, and she’ll be with you in no time…